Stacie L. Patterson Law Blog

Joran van der Sloot was sentenced on January 13 in Lima, Peru. On the 11th, he confessed to the killing of young Peruvian, Stephany Flores with hopes of receiving a lesser sentence. Apparently, the ploy didn't work. Under Peruvian law, often times when someone offers a "sincere confession" to murder, the sentence is lighter. Defense attorneys hoped that the confession would result in a prison term of less than 10 years. Van der Sloot was sentenced to 28 years and ordered to pay $75,000 in restitution to Flores' family.

He should be released in June 2038 due to time already served but he could be up for parole if/when he has served half of his sentence with good behavior. He will serve in  Piedras Gordas prison as opposed to Castro Castro prison (where he has been since his arrest) after prison authorities received complaints that the Dutchman was enjoying too many privileges.

Even if van der Sloot is released early, his legal troubles are far from over. He faces extortion and fraud charges in the United States regarding the Natalee Holloway case. There is some dispute on whether or not van der Sloot can be extradited from Peru. Some experts argue that his Peruvian sentence must be fulfilled before extradition, while others argue that it wouldn't be necessary. The U.S. government has made no move to extradite him but either way, the Peruvian court has made it clear that van der Sloot will be expelled from the country upon his release.

Van der Sloot has stated that he will appeal the decision.

If you have been charged with a crime, call San Diego attorney Stacie L. Patterson. (619) 269-8074